Advertise on podcast: Profit Is A Choice

326: How Leading Without Fear Increases Profitability Joining me on the podcast today is Mallory Mathison Glenn, owner of Mallory Mathison, Inc. in the Atlanta area. With a deep appreciation for historical context, Mallory creates gracious, inviting interiors that beautifully blend the character of the past with the comforts of modern living. Mallory and I have worked together over the years, and one thing has always stood out to me: the intentional way she builds and leads her team. In today's episode, we're talking about leadership, mentorship, and the power of leading without fear. You'll hear how investing in people, creating a culture of trust, and developing future leaders can strengthen your business, improve the client experience, and create lasting financial benefits. This is a conversation full of practical wisdom for anyone looking to build not just a successful business, but a thriving team. Topics Covered: Hiring Team Mentorship Company Culture Key Thoughts: Reinforcing company vision, mission, values and culture is so important to keep everyone on the same page. Hiring and employee development strategies are key to building a great team. It is possible to empower team members to take ownership of projects without micromanaging while providing oversight. The goal is to foster confidence and open communication. Maintaining positive morale and avoiding divisive attitudes is crucial for the team's overall success. Contact Michele: Email: [email protected] Facebook: Scarlet Thread Consulting Instagram: @ScarletThreadATL Website: ScarletThreadConsulting.com LinkedIn: Michele Williams Contact Mallory: Email: [email protected] Website: www.mallorymathison.com References and Resources: Work with Me The Designers' Inner Circle - Become a Member Today    CFO2Go Strategy2Go Metrique Solutions

325: Building a Profitable Design Business Where Your Team Wins Too With me today is Kelsey McGregor, founder and lead designer of Kelsey Leigh Design Co., a nationally renowned interior design firm based in Oklahoma City specializing in new construction, renovation, and full-service furnishings. Known for her elevated rustic-modern aesthetic, Kelsey creates spaces that balance refined architectural detail with warmth, approachability, and timeless appeal. Kelsey is also the owner of Heritage House, a home furnishings and décor retail store that reflects her signature style. In today's conversation, we're talking about how she has structured her business differently from the traditional model—and how paying her team well and sharing in the company's success has created greater joy, loyalty, and fun in the workplace. This is an inspiring conversation about building a profitable business while also creating a culture where people feel valued, supported, and excited to contribute Topics Covered: Intentionality in protecting family and personal time while pursuing your passion is key. It is possible to create a strategy for charitable giving from the beginning. Flexible work time for all employees is possible. Time tracking provides the information necessary for team pay and for invoicing. People over profits. Contact Michele: Email: [email protected] Facebook: Scarlet Thread Consulting Instagram: @ScarletThreadATL Website: ScarletThreadConsulting.com LinkedIn: Michele Williams Contact Kelsey: Email: [email protected] Website: www.kelseyleighdesignco.com Instagram: @kelseyleighdesignco Facebook: @kelseyleighdesignco TikTok: @kelseyleighdesignco Pinterest: @kelseyleighdesignco References and Resources: Work with Me The Designers' Inner Circle - Become a Member Today    CFO2Go Strategy2Go Metrique Solutions

324: Pricing Your Work Without Emotion On today's podcast, we're doing something a little different. You're going to hear a pre-recorded conversation I had with Ceil DiGuglielmo, host of the Sew Much More podcast. This time, Ceil turned the tables and interviewed me about my trademarked course, Pricing Without Emotion. I've been teaching Pricing Without Emotion since 2010, helping business owners understand not only how to price for profitability, but also how their mindset and relationship with money can influence the way they price. I'm especially excited to share this conversation as we prepare to launch the next Pricing Without Emotion course at Scarlet Thread on October 8, 2026. As Ceil says in her introduction, even if you have no intention of taking the course, there is plenty in this conversation that you can apply to your business right now. So as you listen, I invite you to think about your own pricing journey, the emotions that may be influencing your decisions, and ultimately, your relationship with money. Enjoy the conversation! Topics Covered: Pricing using empirical data Emotion applied to the process not the payment Good pricing principles Contact Michele: Email: [email protected] Facebook: Scarlet Thread Consulting Instagram: @ScarletThreadATL Website: ScarletThreadConsulting.com LinkedIn: Michele Williams   References and Resources: Work with Me The Designers' Inner Circle - Become a Member Today    CFO2Go Strategy2Go Metrique Solutions

Back with us today is Courtney Bramlett of The Good Sower. Courtney specializes in helping companies develop marketing strategies and, just as importantly, put those strategies into action. Today, we're answering the question: What is the first marketing system a design firm should build? We'll talk about the connection—or sometimes the disconnect—between your marketing efforts and your overall business strategy, and why your marketing systems should support where you actually want your company to go. If you've ever felt like you're doing a lot of marketing but aren't sure it's moving your business forward, this conversation is for you. Listen in as we explore how to build a more intentional and strategic approach to marketing your design firm. Topics Mentioned: Marketing Challenges Marketing Strategies Marketing Systems Key Thoughts:  Good marketing is an investment of time and money. One of the biggest challenges is to start marketing without a clear strategy or desired outcome. Predictable and scalable strategies for business and marketing create growth and provide visibility even in a downturn. Focus on strong local visibility before worrying about national visibility. Contact Michele: Email: [email protected] Facebook: Scarlet Thread Consulting Instagram: @ScarletThreadATL Website: scarletthreadconsulting.com LinkedIn: Michele-Williams Contact Courtney: Email: [email protected] Website: https://www.thegoodsower.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/courtneybramlett_ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/courtney-bramlett-revenue-driver/   References and Resources: Work with Me The Designers' Inner Circle - Become a Member Today    CFO2Go Metrique Solutions

With me on the podcast today is Ed Sedgley. He has spent over 20 years founding and scaling technology and marketing businesses across global markets. His expertise lies at the intersection of emerging technology and commercial growth – specifically, how the right tools can meaningfully accelerate sales.   As CEO and Founder of Viewa, Ed leads a business at the forefront of 3D, Augmented Reality and Artificial Intelligence visualization software for retailers and manufacturers of home goods. We are going to talk about how utilizing such software can shorten the sales process, lead to better outcomes and make expectations much more clear. Topics Mentioned: AI Visualization Tools Consumer Behavior Augmented Reality Key Thoughts:  Augmented reality became a necessary technology during COVID. Good AI can enhance realism and light/shade effects. 80% of people now conduct research online before buying. Visualizer tools keep web visitors engaged for longer on the site. Contact Michele: Email: [email protected] Facebook: Scarlet Thread Consulting Instagram: @ScarletThreadATL Website: scarletthreadconsulting.com LinkedIn: Michele-Williams Contact Ed: Email: [email protected] Website: https://www.viewa.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raleighworkup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sedgley/     References and Resources: Work with Me The Designers' Inner Circle - Become a Member Today    CFO2Go Metrique Solutions

321: Profit Doesn't Happen By Accident Welcome to the Monday Minute with Michele—your quick hit of strategy, insight, and actionable ideas to help you move your business forward one small win at a time. Today the topic is profit doesn't happen by accident. Topics Covered: Intentionality in strategy and tactics Profitability goes beyond simple finances Know what you need your money to do Contact Michele: Email: [email protected] Facebook: Scarlet Thread Consulting Instagram: @ScarletThreadATL Website: ScarletThreadConsulting.com LinkedIn: Michele Williams   References and Resources: Work with Me The Designers' Inner Circle - Become a Member Today    CFO2Go Strategy2Go

On the podcast today is Hilaire Martin, founder of Raleigh Workup—a space created for interior design entrepreneurs and creatives to turn ideas into action. It's a community built on genuine support, shared wisdom, and meaningful connection, where beautiful ideas are given the space to grow and flourish.   In today's conversation, we're talking about the importance of community, the reality of feeling alone in business, and what it looks like to be vulnerable enough to take the next step. This is a thoughtful and encouraging episode for anyone building a creative business and looking for connection along the way. Topics Mentioned: Co-working spaces Flexibility and scaling in office space Building intentional community Key Thoughts:  Co-working spaces can cater to entrepreneurs at different stages of their business. Co-working provides scalability up and down and business changes. There are benefits to shared workspace. Building intentional community through shared spaces can foster a sense of belonging and support. When in community, business growth can accelerate. Contact Michele: Email: [email protected] Facebook: Scarlet Thread Consulting Instagram: @ScarletThreadATL Website: scarletthreadconsulting.com LinkedIn: Michele-Williams Contact Hilaire: Email: [email protected] Website: www.raleighworkup.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raleighworkup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/raleigh-workup/     References and Resources: Work with Me The Designers' Inner Circle - Become a Member Today    CFO2Go Metrique Solutions

319: Lead Management and Client Experience Systems that Boost Profitability Joining me today is Porsche Williams, Founder and CEO of The Prototype, a business operations and client experience firm exclusively for designers. Porsche is passionate about helping design businesses streamline growth by refining their processes and elevating the client journey.   In today's episode, we're diving into client experience and lead qualification—two critical areas that can make or break your profitability. Porsche shares where the hidden profit leaks happen before projects even begin and how you can tighten your systems to create a more efficient, profitable business. Topics Mentioned: Communication Efficiency Business Operations Key Thoughts:  Three key patterns in lost leads: lack of follow-up, inconsistent communication, and avoidable mishaps during project execution. Consistent communication with clients builds satisfaction and trust in the design process. If you don't have follow up sequences for leads, focus on this before going after more leads. Focus on quality over quantity with leads. Contact Michele: Email: [email protected] Facebook: Scarlet Thread Consulting Instagram: @ScarletThreadATL Website: scarletthreadconsulting.com LinkedIn: Michele-Williams Contact Porsche: Email: [email protected] Website: https://www.theprototype.net/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theprototypelifestyle/  https://www.linkedin.com/in/porsche-williams/     References and Resources: Work with Me The Designers' Inner Circle - Become a Member Today    CFO2Go Metrique Solutions

318: Monday Minute: When to Hire and When to Restructure Instead Welcome to the Monday Minute with Michele—your quick hit of strategy, insight, and actionable ideas to help you move your business forward one small win at a time. Today the topic is when to hire and when to restructure Instead. Topics Covered: Hiring vs. restructuring Limiting growth Efficiencies in work Contact Michele: Email: [email protected] Facebook: Scarlet Thread Consulting Instagram: @ScarletThreadATL Website: ScarletThreadConsulting.com LinkedIn: Michele Williams   References and Resources: Work with Me The Designers' Inner Circle - Become a Member Today    CFO2Go Strategy2Go Metrique Solutions

317: How to Align Your Bookkeeping with Your Design Business Finances Back with me on the podcast today is Erin McGhee, a financial strategist and accountant who has dedicated her career to building bookkeeping and CFO-level services specifically for the interior design industry. In today's conversation, we're looking beyond the financial reports and focusing on the inputs that drive your numbers long before they ever reach QuickBooks or your accounting software. Erin shares how the decisions, processes, and systems throughout your business directly impact profitability—and where hidden profit leaks are most likely to occur. Our hope is that this episode inspires you to take a closer look at one area of your business, uncover opportunities for improvement, and strengthen the financial health of your company. Topics Mentioned: Backend business operations Alignment of financial workflows Financial system of record Key Thoughts:  Organizing the backend of the business with the design process allows work to flow smoothly. Business processes are changing due to technology and our internal process needs to change as well to support. Be clear on where the detail for your financials lives. Keeping your project management system and financial systems aligned is critical for success. Be clear on when your company recognizes revenue. Contact Michele: Email: [email protected] Facebook: Scarlet Thread Consulting Instagram: @ScarletThreadATL Website: scarletthreadconsulting.com LinkedIn: Michele-Williams Contact Erin: Email: [email protected] Website: https://www.mcgheefinancials.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcgheefinancials     References and Resources: Work with Me The Designers' Inner Circle - Become a Member Today    CFO2Go Metrique Solutions

315: How Confidence Impacts Pricing, Profitability, and Business Success With me today is Lauren DeLoach of Lauren DeLoach Interiors, an Atlanta-area designer known for embracing timeless Southern design with a fresh, elevated approach. In today's episode, we're talking about Lauren's entrepreneurial journey—what worked well, what created challenges along the way, and how she recognized when something was no longer supporting the growth of her company. Lauren shares the mindset shifts and business changes that helped her continue moving forward with clarity and intention. It's an honest and insightful conversation about growth, resilience, and building a business that truly aligns with your vision. Topics Mentioned: Creating boundaries with clients Finding the right balance between creative and business-minded roles Intentional business growth Key Thoughts:  Formative experiences and mentorship can play a crucial role in shaping your path. Balancing a business with raising a family can be difficult. Gaining confidence in the value of the design work paired with proper compensation helps prevent burnout. Hire team members who align well with the company vision and who have a strong work ethic. Contact Michele: Email: [email protected] Facebook: Scarlet Thread Consulting Instagram: @ScarletThreadATL Website: scarletthreadconsulting.com LinkedIn: Michele-Williams Contact Lauren: Email: [email protected] Website: https://www.laurendeloachinteriors.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurendeloachinteriors     References and Resources: Work with Me The Designers' Inner Circle - Become a Member Today    CFO2Go Metrique Solutions

315: Monday Minute: The Profit Gap: High Revenue, Low Clarity Welcome to the Monday Minute with Michele—your quick hit of strategy, insight, and actionable ideas to help you move your business forward one small win at a time. Today, we're talking about the profit gap. The gap is the difference between what is happening (high revenue) and our understanding of how the money is being managed (low clarity). Topics Covered: Revenue alone can mask operational issues Owner's can be the most underpaid people in the company Clarity comes from understanding the drivers of profitability Contact Michele: Email: [email protected] Facebook: Scarlet Thread Consulting Instagram: @ScarletThreadATL Website: ScarletThreadConsulting.com LinkedIn: Michele Williams References and Resources: Work with Me The Designers' Inner Circle - Become a Member Today    CFO2Go Strategy2Go Metrique Solutions

314: QUIPA: Processes that Drive Profit With over two decades of experience as a workroom owner and interior designer, Hope Arbery understands the real challenges behind custom work—long hours, pricing uncertainty, and the constant pressure to get everything just right. She founded QUIPA to provide the tools she—and so many others—wished they had: automated yardage and pricing calculations, professional estimates, and systems that bring clarity instead of chaos. Hope is deeply committed to helping workrooms not just survive, but truly thrive with confidence, professionalism, and profit. In today's conversation, we're diving into what inspired her to create QUIPA, how it works, and the key problems it solves for workrooms everywhere. Topics Mentioned: Project management and pricing support Modernizing workrooms Simplified operations and communication Key Thoughts:  Modernizing workrooms in the custom soft furnishings industry to remain competitive is very important. The demand for efficiency and accuracy is increasing, and estimating and project management tools can provide assistance. The complexity of teaching the intricacies of window treatments prohibit many from hiring. Providing estimates quickly helps maintain project momentum and avoid losing clients due to delays. Contact Michele: Email: [email protected] Facebook: Scarlet Thread Consulting Instagram: @ScarletThreadATL Website: scarletthreadconsulting.com LinkedIn: Michele-Williams Contact Hope: Email: [email protected] Website: https://www.quipa.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/myquipa Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/myQUIPA/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/myquipa References and Resources: Work with Me The Designers' Inner Circle - Become a Member Today    CFO2Go Metrique Solutions

313: Seven Primal Questions that Impact Your Employees Joining me today is Kathryn Dillon, a certified Primal Question Coach with more than 30 years of experience owning and operating a successful window treatment design and fabrication business. While Kathryn has built a thriving career, her true passion has always been mentoring others—helping them grow personally and professionally with clarity, compassion, and confidence. Guided by the Primal Question framework and her own journey of healing, she creates safe, judgment-free spaces where clients can gain insight and walk away with practical tools for meaningful change. Kathryn and I both believe that growth is possible at any stage of life and business, which makes this conversation especially powerful. Today, we're introducing you to the Seven Primal Questions—and how they can transform the way you think, lead, and grow. Topics Mentioned: Hiring and managing staff Framework of understanding Big question Key Thoughts:  Our primal question is related to how we see the world and our internal dialogue. We all have core motivational needs. Knowing our primal question can lead to healthier decision making and emotional regulation.   Contact Michele: Email: [email protected] Facebook: Scarlet Thread Consulting Instagram: @ScarletThreadATL Website: scarletthreadconsulting.com LinkedIn: Michele-Williams Contact Kathryn: Email: [email protected] Website: shiftingrhythmscoaching.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shiftingrhythmscoaching Facebook: Shifting Rhythms Coaching     References and Resources: 7 Primal Questions by Mike Foster Atomic Habits by James Clear Strengths Finder 2.0 Assessment Work with Me The Designers' Inner Circle - Become a Member Today    CFO2Go Metrique Solutions

312: Monday Minute: What a Strategic Plan Should Actually Do Welcome to the Monday Minute with Michele—your quick hit of strategy, insight, and actionable ideas to help you move your business forward one small win at a time. Today, we're talking about what a strategic plan should actually do. So stick around—this is one you won't want to miss.   Topics Covered: Need for strategic plan How to use a strategic plan What goes into a strategic plan Contact Michele: Email: [email protected] Facebook: Scarlet Thread Consulting Instagram: @ScarletThreadATL Website: ScarletThreadConsulting.com LinkedIn: Michele Williams   References and Resources: Work with Me The Designers' Inner Circle - Become a Member Today    CFO2Go Strategy2Go Metrique Solutions